Bridge collapse and train derailment in Montana

Officials have reported the collapse of a bridge over the Yellowstone River in Montana on Saturday morning. This caused sections of a freight train, which was carrying hazardous materials, to plunge into the flooded river. More specifically, the train was transporting hot asphalt and molten sulfur, as stated by David Stamey, the chief of emergency services in Stillwater County. In response, authorities shut down drinking water intakes downstream to assess the potential danger.

The cause of the collapse is currently being investigated, with the river's recent heavy rains possibly playing a role, although it remains unclear. The incident occurred in a sparsely populated area within the Yellowstone River valley, about 110 miles (177km) northeast of Yellowstone National Park.

In analyzing the possible causes, Robert Bea, a retired engineering professor from the University of California Berkeley, noted that the Yellowstone River experienced record flooding in 2022, resulting in significant damage to Yellowstone National Park and adjacent towns in Montana. Bea suggested that the repeated flooding could be a contributing factor, as high water flow exerts strong forces on the bridge's piers and river bottom, potentially leading to erosion or scour that weakens the foundation. Investigators will likely examine the bridge's components for wear, rust, and maintenance records.

Stamey assured that there was no immediate threat to the crews working at the site, as the hazardous materials were being diluted by the swollen river. The train crew was reported to be safe, with no injuries, according to a statement from Andy Garland, a spokesperson for the Montana Rail Link. Garland mentioned that several tank cars were partially submerged in the river, and railroad crews were present in Stillwater County near the town of Columbus, which is approximately 40 miles (about 64km) west of Billings.

Garland emphasized their commitment to addressing any potential impacts resulting from the incident and understanding the reasons behind the bridge collapse. In Yellowstone County, neighboring the site, officials implemented emergency measures at water treatment plants due to concerns about a potential hazardous materials spill. Residents were asked to conserve water as a precautionary measure.

The Montana disaster emergency services and Federal Railroad Administration officials have been notified and are involved at the scene. Kelly Hitchcock of the Columbus Water Users took action to halt the flow of river water into an irrigation ditch downstream from the collapsed bridge, aiming to prevent the tank car contents from reaching nearby farmland. The Stillwater County Sheriff's Office informed the Columbus Water Users about the collapse on Saturday morning.